The meeting will take place at the Evron Centre in John Street, Filey, from 7pm on Monday July 13.

The issue will be the sole focus of the gathering in a bid to alleviate the problem which has become an increasing concern for local people.

Chris Hodgson, who is chairman of the forum, said: "We've chosen this topic as it has consistently emerged as a concern for local residents. A lot of people bring the matter up at every meeting we go to.

"We appreciate that good dog owners always clean up after their dogs, it is the irresponsible ones who are the problem. It is a question of targeting these irresponsible dog owners and having them prosecuted, which would hopefully act as a deterrent.

"This is a fantastic opportunity to ask questions and help find a solution to the problem. We have a real chance to make a difference so please come along."

The forum is open to anyone who lives in Eastfield, Filey, Hunmanby and the surrounding villages.

In March a Scarborough Council spokesman admitted only two dog-related prosecutions had gone to court since 2006.

At a recent council meeting, members were told that the new in-house dog warden service would be advertising two posts from the end of June and the improved service would be up and running by the end of September.

However, the fact that it was two and not three wardens as recommended meant they would be restricted in their educational work and could not provide a comprehensive out-of-hours service.

Mr Hodgson said: "We don't have enough wardens but even if we had, they can't be everywhere.

"If people ring the anti-social behaviour line and report them, anonymously if they wish, they can help get it sorted out."

In a survey by police earlier this year it was found that animal and dog fouling was a bigger concern for residents than more than 50 other categories of crime, disorder and nuisance.

Stamping out dog mess was found to be the number one priority for people living in Hunmanby and villages, and the second biggest issue for Filey residents.

More than 80 people who are dog owners have already signed up to Good Dogs, a Hunmanby in Bloom initiative to tackle the issue.

The group has presented tags inscribed with the words "I have a responsible owner" and handing out posters for non-dog owners to use in windows and on verges.

The election of the new chairman will also take place at the forum.

Free transport to the meeting is available. For more information contact Gemma Ryan on (01723) 383564.